Stockton's Arc has a new look - after a half-a-million pound revamp to make its cafe bar a ‘destination’ venue.

The Dovecot Street arts centre’s No 60 cafe bar has been transformed with new bar fronts, furniture and lighting - and a new bistro menu, serving up “modern British” food into the evening.

It’s also taking on more bar staff to help cope with extra demand.

Shaun Dowd said: “We want people to use Arc as a destination restaurant - historically, we always had food as a service if you were already here; people used to think ‘you don’t go to Arc unless you’re going to a show’.

Shaun Dowd operations manager at Arc (Image: Evening Gazette)

“We’ve been busy for the last couple of years but we’ve been limited by the kitchen facilities.

“Now everything is nice, new and shiny.”

Window vinyls have been added to Arc’s floor-to-roof curved glass front, for a ‘softer’ environment with new colours, wall designs, bars and seating for the inside - and a full refit for the venue’s 20-year-old kitchen.

The venue will still have its deli lunches from hot sandwiches to salads and jackets, but will also be serving up a bistro menu of ‘three to five dishes’ in the evenings for theatre and cinema-goers.

There’s a ‘contemporary feel’ to the menu adds Shaun.

The Arc in Stockton has had a revamp (Image: Evening Gazette)

“Theatre or cinema-goers will be able to grab a steak or a nice risotto beforehand, there will be a real step up in quality.

“There isn’t much like it around at the minute.

“We are hoping people will come and see us after work or before a show, there’s plenty of nice space to hang out, use the wi-fi.

No 60 at Arc is a social enterprise - with all profits going back into supporting ARC’s ongoing work, to enable people across Teesside to ‘enjoy amazing arts and cultural experiences right on their doorstep, at prices they can afford - and sometimes completely free’.

“You can come and have your dinner and support young people in the arts as well,” Shaun added.